Upcoming programs

Stay up-to-date with Cole County

Spring Gardening Seminar

Are you counting down the days to spring? Are you just "itching" to get out in the garden and get your hands dirty? Of course, frost and freezing temps are a reality until May in Missouri. So, what's a gardener to do? Sign up for the Spring Gardening Seminar on March 2. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a beginner, spend the day learning gardening tips, making gardening items to bring home with you, and enjoying the company of fellow gardeners. For only $35, you'll have your choice of 15 different programs, In addition, there are five different "make and take" sessions to choose from for additional fees. Lunch is provided along with a speaker you're sure to enjoy. Plan to join us! Don't wait too long to register so you can secure your first choice of programs to attend.

Click on the "Spring Gardening Seminar" to the left of this page.

Missouri Woodland Stewards

a 4-part series program that targets rural landowners with a patch of woods or more. The program may be of general interest to those in conservation or gardening purposes. The first 2 classes will be held at the Cole County Extension Center, the last 2 will be held at Callaway County Extension. Registration in advanced is need. For more information, check out the flyer. To register call 573-634-2824 or 573-642-0755.

Master Gardener College Scholarship

Three, $1,000 college scholarships will be awarded to three students that reside in Callaway, Cole, Moniteau, Osage, Maries and Miller counties. Applicants must be planning to enroll in an accredited college, university, technical or trade school for the fall term of the current year. Applicants are limited to those who plant o study horticulture, agriculture, conservation or forestry. Applications are due by February 28.

Missouri Century Farms

The Missouri Century Farm program's history dates back to 1976 as a result of the Missouri Committee for Agriculture that was co-chaired by James B. Boillot, Director, Missouri Department of Agriculture, and Elmer R. Kiehl, Dean of the College of Agriculture, University of Missouri. The committee's purpose was to organize the American Revolution Bicentennial celebration in Missouri. One activity that was initiated by the committee was the "Centennial Farm" project, which awarded certificates to persons owning farms that had been in the same family for 100 years or more. Interest in the program continued after 1976. The College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources and University of Missouri Extension planned a 10-year update in 1986 called the "Century Farm" program. This program has been sustained as a yearly event with over 100 farms recognized each year. In 2008, the Missouri Farm Bureau became a program co-sponsor.

Rent the Extension Center Conference Room

Cole County Extension has a large conference room that is available for rental. Reservations are accepted based upon availability. Cole County Extension programs take priority. We do not rent on weekends and unable to book further than 3 months in advance. This rooms primary purpose is for education. Alcohol and parties are prohibited. More information can be found on the form or by contacting the extension center at 573-634-2824 or coleco@missouri.edu

Gardening Questions

Do you have a horticulture question that needs answering? We receive more than gardening questions. We also assist with insect questions, lawns, trees and fruit. Email us at coleco@missouri.edu to reach our Hotline. Send digital photos and questions. Someone will reply when they can with an answer or a suggestion.

If you are needing an answer now and can't wait for us to reply, please contact the Springfield MG Hotline at 417-874-2963 or greenemg@missouri.edu

Master Gardeners Meetings

Central Missouri Master Gardeners meet most months at McClung Park on the fourth Tuesday at 6 p.m. except in January and December. Most of these meetings are open to all.

Join 4-H

There are several active 4-H Clubs in Cole County. 4-H is about more than plows, sows, and cows. Shooting Sports is the fastest growing project but with so many projects choices everyone can find something to meet their goals. 4-H is open to all youth ages 5-18.

The 4-H year begins October 1. Enrollment is open year-round; however, there are deadlines for being a member-in-good-standing to be eligible for awards, prizes, and fair participation.

Private Pesticide Applicator Training

Farmers seeking a Private Pesticide Applicator Training need to call the Cole County Extension Center at 573-634-2824 to set up a time to watch a video. Walk-ins are not accepted. Depending on room availability, it can be scheduled on weekday mornings only. This program is free but the Private Applicator Manual (M87) is required. Manuals are available at the extension center.

To register, call 573-634-2824 or email coleco@missouri.edu

Testing Pressure Canning Lids

Cole County Extension Center can only test 4 brands of dial pressure canner gages. The fee to test lids are $2 each. Please call in advance to schedule a time between 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., weekdays.

Lids we test are: Presto; National; Maid of Honor and Magic Seal.We are unable to test All American

please contact the extension center if you have further questions.

Extension Council Meetings

Cole County Extension Council Meetings are open to all unless otherwise publish for a closed meeting. The council meets on the first Thursday of the month, 5:30 p.m. at Cole County Extension Center. The annual dinner is in February, the location may change and a fee may be assessed for the meal. The September council meeting is a work part at the 4-H Food Stand inside of the Jefferson City Jaycees' Fairgrounds. The September meeting is brief so council members can prepare for the Fall Festival that follows two days later.This date might be on the second Thursday of the month. For more information, contact Cole County Extension.